The United States military recently confirmed that it executed five strikes against targets in Houthi-held territory in the Red Sea. Among the strikes was an attack targeting an unmanned underwater vessel, which represents a notable development in the ongoing conflict. This marks the first instance of an underwater vessel being used in an attack by the Houthis, the Iran-backed militant group controlling significant portions of territory in Yemen.
The strikes conducted by the U.S. military on Saturday included three anti-ship cruise missiles, one drone boat -a tactic previously observed-, and the underwater drone, referred to as a submarine drone. This unconventional method suggests a potential shift in the Houthi's tactics, as they have previously engaged in attacks on commercial shipping and U.S. military vessels since the conflict began in October.
Details surrounding the recent strike remain scarce, including how the U.S. identified the underwater drone, the extent of the Houthi's possession of such systems, and the potential risks they pose to U.S. forces and commercial shipping in the region. The use of an underwater drone introduces new challenges as such devices are generally more difficult to detect and neutralize, raising concerns about enhanced effectiveness in future attacks.
Despite their consistent attacks, the Houthis have not yet succeeded in targeting a U.S. Navy vessel, although they have come close on occasion. The group's persistent attacks are said to be in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, with the ultimate goal of having Israel withdraw from Gaza.
Following the recent U.S. military action, questions linger about whether the strikes will deter the Houthis from escalating their attacks further. The Houthis have not shown signs of slowing down despite retaliatory measures taken by the U.S., indicating a continuing pattern of aggression. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of this conflict in the Red Sea region.
